The River Raisin National Battlefield in southeastern Michigan is being redeveloped into a historical, cultural, recreational and ecological tourist destination.
The Detroit Free Press reports that the redevelopment project in Monroe is estimated to cost $100 million. The state's Department of Natural Resources and private partners will fund the effort at the location of an important battle in the War of 1812.
The project will begin with the purchase of 20 houses, which will be demolished to make room for a recreation of historic Frenchtown and a $20 million education center.
Officials estimate the park will attract more than 1 million visitors annually, including 100,000 school children. Park Superintendent Scott Bentley says the area had 239,000 visitors last year.
